For Dementia Week

I look upon a world
That once was mine.
And was colourful.

I look upon a world
That once spoke to me.
In a crystal clear voice.

I look upon a world
That once understood me.
Without explanation.

I look upon a world
That once gave to me.
Without asking for anything in return.

I look upon a world
That once took me places.
Exotic lands I dreamt of.

I look upon a world
That taught me things.
Making me stand tall.

The colours are fading.
The voice softer.
It doesn’t understand me.
It no longer gives.
The places have changed.
I forget what I’ve learnt.
I can’t stand anymore.
My dreams are forgotten.
I can’t explain
What’s in my brain.
I can’t remember
what I once loved.
I can barely remember who I am.
I’m fading away
One word at a time,
And yet, I can’t remember
what those words are…

Live, love, feel, see, be

You haven't lived
Unless you've laughed
With a stitch in your side.

You haven't lived
Unless you've dropped
And shattered a glass.

You haven't lived
Unless you've run
Quickly away from trouble.

You haven't lived
Unless you've cried
Till your eyes go dry.

You haven't lived
Unless you've felt
Your heart shatter into shards.

You haven't lived
Unless you've picked up
The pieces of sometime else's heart.

You haven't lived
Unless you've wiped
Someone else's tears.

You haven't lived
Unless you've calmed
So very many fears.

You haven't lived
Unless you've held
A shaking and scared hand.

You haven't lived
Unless you've kissed
With your eyes closed tight.

You haven't lived
Unless you've seen
A frown turn into a smile.

You haven't lived
Unless you've been
The one who understands.

You haven't lived
Unless you've hugged
With your heart upon your sleeve.

You haven't lived
Unless you've touched
A soul in desperate need.